Ear Lobe Disasters: What To Do About Ripped and Stretched Piercings

Whether it is a traumatic rip or a slow stretch after years of wearing heavy earrings, concerns over how our piercings look – and function – can be a serious issue. Rachael Taylor discovers just how common the problem of ripped and stretched ear lobes is and seeks solutions from jewellers and surgeons. 

It was a hug from a friend that did it. As she moved out of the embrace, one of vintage jewellery dealer Emma de Sybel's signature oversized earrings caught and was ripped out, leaving her with a tear that split her lobe in two. It was a traumatic experience, one which she swiftly waves off in favour of what she sees as an even bigger disaster. "Being a jeweller, you've got to wear earrings," exclaims de Sybel, whose company Baroque Rocks specialises in gold jewellery from the 1950s to 1990s. Her quirky finds have been bought by celebrities and can be found in Paul Smith and Jigsaw boutiques.